How to Set an Elegant Thanksgiving Table

Welcome! Today I am excited to share my favourite tips for setting an elegant Thanksgiving table without breaking the bank. With a few simple touches – pusmpkin, a simple centrepiece and candles – I created a cozy and inviting space to gather family and celebrate all that we’re thankful for.

Why Chose a Formal Table Setting for Thanks giving

I’ve always believed that fine china shouldn’t be kept just for special occasions – and that simple white dishes can make the coziest tables, but every now and then I love to add a bit of elegance and formality. It sets the tone for the entire occasion. Most years I am happy with a more casual approach, but some times I just feel like dressing up -both my table and myself.

A Special Gift

Before we get to the tips I have for you, I wanted to share a bit about the china I used to create my own elegant table setting. It is something from this year that I am so thankful for, not just the china itself, but the sentiment attached to it.

If you have visited before, you may know that my daughter had a lovely June wedding. Early in the planning process she was asking about things I would recommend for her to add to her gift registry. I listed off the usual things, but then I told her the one regret I had was not adding a china pattern to my wedding gift registry all those years ago. While I do have the use of my late Nana’s beautiful china, I have never had a set of my own.

On her wedding day she presented my husband with a little gift box to thank him for all he had done leading up to her big day. Inside was a gorgeous watch with an engraved message that brought tears to his eyes. I was so happy for him. A little while later, out she comes with a giant box and sets it in front of me. I didn’t have a clue what was in it. I set about opening it only to find inside, this gorgeous vintage Royal Albert china in the pattern Lavender Rose.

Unbeknownst to me, she had been working with a local antique store that we frequent to find a pattern she thought I would love. It took some months, but when she saw this pattern, she knew it would be perfect for me. And, I couldn’t agree more! Let’s just say it was a good thing I hadn’t had my make up done yet!

How to Set an Elegant Thanksgiving Table on a Budget

SHOP YOUR HOME – If you have visited my tablescape posts before you know this is my cardinal rule! You don’t need a full set of matching dishes, mix and match can be equally elegant as a full set of fine china. But, if you do have a set tucked away, bring it out and put it to use!

CREATE A SIMPLE CENTREPIECE WITH NATURAL ELEMENTS– I created a centrepiece with some inexpensive greenery from the grocery store, late season hydrangeas from my Limelight hydrangea tree, and Gerbera daisies from the farmer’s market. Total cost was about $12. Autumn also can be the best time of year for foraging greens, seed pods and branches that would make a stunning centrepiece.

LAYER FOR WARMTH AND SIMPLE LUXURY – Even the simplest of tables feel more elegant with layers. Start with a tablecloth as your backdrop. Layer on charger plates, and top them with your prettiest plates or even classic all white china. Gold chargers add warmth and sophistication without breaking the bank. I paid just $1.25 each for mine at the Dollar Tree. Layer napkins on top of the plates or nestle under flatware.

ADD THE GLOW OF CANDLES – Nothing says elegance like the glow of candlelight. Simple votives or tall taper candles (I love the battery operated ones!) are perfect for adding warmth and cozy elegance.

KEEP THE PALETTE SOFT AND SIMPLE – I am all for the traditional autumn colours when it comes to autumn table decor, like I did for my Cozy Cottage table, but don’t feel tied to oranges and browns! Sticking to just a few colours makes the table feel serene and intentional. Other elements added to the table such as the late season hydrangeas, the rose coloured velvet pumpkin and the soft green taper candles all speak to the season in a less traditional way.

PERSONAL TOUCHES MATTER MOST – Being a thoughtful host is always elegant! Making each guest feel like they are the most important part of the meal will never go out of style. Offer a selection of coffee or tea for after dinner, or making individual desserts like these Cherry Bakewell Tarts adds a nice personal touch, or having a little cheese tray set out for them to nibble before dinner. Make a playlist for background music that reflects their musical tastes.

AND FINALLY, MIX OLD WITH NEW – this is a favourite tip of mine. Like I did on my table today, I have used vintage china with newer modern, gold flatware. A clean, sleek wineglass alongside the vintage china teacup. It create’s that collected-over-time look that is relaxed and elegant just perfect for my cozy cottage home.

I hope these ideas inspire you to create your own version of an elegantly styled Thanksgiving table – one that reflects your tastes and the people you invite to gather round it. Because, when a table feels personal, it is always in style!

More Table Inspiration!

Now, as promised, below you will find links to 13 more unique tables to get you even more inspired!